Trampolines: Summer Fun or Attractive Nuisance?

The summer brings with it the blazing sun and a wealth of fun activities for adults and children alike. However, some of these activities can be a danger to the well-being of you and your loved ones. According to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons, trampolines are the cause of more than 246,000 injuries in the United States each year—with more than 185,000 of those injuries occurring to children under the age of 15.

Take the right steps to stay safe

Don’t jump on or allow your children to jump on trampolines without adequate safety features in place. Padded springs and a netted enclosure can help people avoid trampoline injury in Salt Lake City, but even with these safety precautions in place, serious injuries can still occur. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that while jumping on trampolines is always perilous, it can be safer if only one person jumps at a time and the trampoline and its attached safety features are checked often for signs of wear and tear. Children should never be left unsupervised when jumping.

If someone gets hurt, get immediate medical attention

Leaping off a trampoline or performing daredevil stunts are not the only ways serious injuries can occur when jumping. Many injuries happen because of two jumpers colliding, jumpers attempting somersaults, or landing on the springs or frame when coming down after a jump. Even when practicing prudent safety measures, people can get seriously hurt when using a trampoline. If someone is hurt while on a trampoline, seek medical treatment immediately.

Symptoms of spinal cord injury

If someone is unable to move any of their body parts following a trampoline injury, he or she may have suffered an injury to the spinal column. Spinal cord injuries are an all-too-common outcome for people hurt while jumping on a trampoline. These types of injuries can have devastating results, including partial or total paralysis which could be permanent even after medical treatment is rendered. If the injured party complains of feeling weak or numb or is unable to move his or her limbs or the person’s spine is twisted at an unusual angle, you may be dealing with a spinal cord injury.

What to do in case you suspect a spinal cord injury

If you suspect someone has suffered a spinal cord injury, carefully stabilize the spinal column by immobilizing the head and neck. You can prop the head and neck in place by using rolled towels or carefully using your hands. Call for an ambulance so trained medical professionals can come assist the injured party, and keep the spinal column stabilized until help arrives. Only perform CPR if you are trained in doing so and the injured party appears to have stopped breathing, and alter your technique so that you are not tilting the head or neck when performing the procedure.

Know your legal rights

If you or a loved one has suffered a trampoline injury in Salt Lake City, the team at Jardine Law Offices, P.C. can help. These experienced Salt Lake City trampoline accident attorneys can help you learn about your options under the law and can help you get monetary compensation for your pain and suffering. Contact us for a consultation to find out more about your rights and what steps you can take to get the settlement you deserve.